Bsca center for mental health block grants

The California Department of Health Care Services received a $7.9 million Block Grant for Community Mental Health Services (CFDA 93.958) from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) effective September 30, 2025, with a completion date of September 29, 2027. This two-year award supports the delivery of comprehensive community-based mental health services to adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances throughout California. Key services funded include outpatient counseling, substance abuse treatment, crisis intervention, case management, housing assistance, peer support services, workforce training, and public education campaigns. These services are provided through qualified community programs, including community mental health centers, child mental health programs, psychosocial rehabilitation programs, and mental health peer-support programs.

Under the federal grant program parameters, California may use funds at its discretion to achieve program objectives, with up to 5 percent of the award reserved for administrative costs. The state is required to maintain integrated service systems for children with serious emotional disturbances and must allocate at least 10 percent of the grant toward evidence-based programs targeting individuals with early serious mental illness, including psychotic disorders. The award enables California to develop and maintain a comprehensive, community-based mental health service network often implemented through sub-awards to local governments, community organizations, and healthcare providers serving vulnerable and economically disadvantaged populations.